Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, grew up in a world vastly different from today’s. Their experiences have shaped unique habits and perspectives that often contrast sharply with those of younger generations. As society evolves, some of these Boomer habits stand out as particularly surprising or even perplexing to Millennials and Gen Z.
In this list, I’ll explore 15 surprising Boomer habits that younger people generally don’t share.
Keeping a physical address book
Many Boomers maintain a handwritten address book with phone numbers and addresses. They find comfort in having this information on paper, easily accessible without technology. Younger generations typically store contact information digitally on their phones or in the cloud. This habit shows a generational divide in trust of technology versus physical records.
Printing out emails and documents
Boomers often print important emails or documents to read or file them. They prefer having a hard copy for reference and feel more secure with paper records. Younger people are more likely to keep everything digital, using cloud storage and search functions. This difference can lead to disagreements about paper waste and office organization.
Using a dedicated alarm clock
Many Boomers still use a separate alarm clock instead of their phone. They trust these devices and enjoy the simplicity of a single-function item. Younger generations typically use their smartphones as all-in-one devices, including for alarms. This habit reflects different attitudes towards technology and sleep habits.
Leaving voicemails
Boomers often leave detailed voicemail messages when calls go unanswered. They see this as a polite and efficient way to communicate. Younger people generally dislike voicemails and prefer text messages or missed call notifications. This difference can lead to missed communication and frustration between generations.
Using cash for most purchases
Many Boomers prefer using cash for everyday transactions. They feel it helps them budget better and is more secure than cards. Younger people often use cards or mobile payments for nearly everything. This difference can cause friction when splitting bills or making group purchases.
Maintaining a landline phone
Many Boomers keep a landline phone in addition to their cell phones. They trust the reliability of landlines, especially during emergencies. Younger generations typically only use cell phones and may not see the need for a home phone. This habit shows different perspectives on communication technology and emergency preparedness.
Answering the phone without checking who’s calling
Boomers often pick up the phone as soon as it rings without looking at the caller ID. This habit comes from a time when landlines were the norm and spam calls were less common. Younger people usually screen their calls and prefer texting. This difference can lead to frustration when Boomers expect immediate phone responses from younger family members.
Reading physical newspapers
Many Boomers still enjoy reading printed newspapers with their morning coffee. They value the tactile experience and the ritual of flipping through pages. Younger generations tend to get their news from digital sources and social media. This habit reflects a generational difference in how information is consumed and valued.
Writing checks for purchases
Boomers often use checks to pay for goods and services, especially for larger amounts. They trust this method and like having a paper record of transactions. Younger people prefer digital payment methods like credit cards or mobile apps. This difference can cause delays at checkout lines and confusion for young cashiers unfamiliar with check processing.
Watching scheduled TV programs
Many Boomers still plan their evenings around TV schedules, watching shows as they air. They enjoy the shared experience of viewing programs at the same time as others. Younger generations prefer streaming services and on-demand viewing. This habit reflects different attitudes towards entertainment and time management.
Clipping coupons from newspapers
Boomers often clip coupons from newspaper inserts to save money on groceries. They see this as a practical way to budget and get deals. Younger people tend to use digital coupons or coupon apps on their phones. This difference shows changing approaches to shopping and saving money.
Using a physical map for directions
Some Boomers still prefer using paper maps when traveling to new places. They trust their map-reading skills and enjoy planning routes manually. Younger generations rely almost exclusively on GPS and navigation apps. This habit highlights different approaches to travel planning and trust in technology.
Making photo albums
Many Boomers enjoy creating physical photo albums with printed pictures. They value these tangible memories and the act of flipping through album pages. Younger people typically keep their photos digital, using social media or cloud storage. This difference shows changing attitudes towards preserving and sharing memories.
Writing letters by hand
Some Boomers still write personal letters by hand and send them through the mail. They see this as a more personal and meaningful way to communicate. Younger generations prefer instant communication through texts or social media. This habit reflects different values placed on communication methods and personal touch.
Using a phone book
Boomers might still reach for a phone book to find local businesses or services. They trust these printed directories and find them easy to use. Younger people almost exclusively use online search engines for this information. This difference highlights changing attitudes towards information sources and local business support.
18 Tell-Tale Signs Your Wife is About To Ask For a Divorce
18 Tell-Tale Signs Your Wife is About To Ask For a Divorce
Gray Power: Here’s Why Older Presidents Might Be Better
Gray Power: Here’s Why Older Presidents Might Be Better
15 Crucial Financial Mistakes to Avoid in Your 60s
